Over 70,000 International Students in Canada Face Deportation, Sparking Nationwide Protests

Canada is currently experiencing widespread protests as more than 70,000 international student graduates face the threat of deportation due to recent federal policy changes. These students, many of whom came to Canada with hopes of building a new life, now find their futures uncertain as their work permits are set to expire at the end of this year.

The Naujawan Support Network, a student advocacy group, has highlighted the dire situation for these graduates. The recent changes in Canada’s immigration policies, particularly the restrictions on study permits, have left tens of thousands of students who planned to apply for permanent residency in a precarious position. These students, who have invested heavily in their education and taken on substantial loans, are now grappling with the reality of potentially having to leave the country.

For decades, study permits have served as a pathway to permanent residency and eventually citizenship for many foreign nationals. However, with a record number of temporary residents facing expiring work permits in the coming months, the situation has become increasingly challenging. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau acknowledged the contributions of these foreign workers during the COVID-19 pandemic, particularly during the labor shortage, but stated that the country’s economic needs have since evolved.

Despite the changes, alternate pathways to permanent residency and citizenship remain available, with detailed information accessible on the Government of Canada’s website.

In response to the looming deportations, international students across Canada have organized protests, rallying from coast to coast. A group of students has even set up encampments outside the legislative assembly in Prince Edward Island, where they have been protesting overnight for more than three months.

The situation remains tense as students and advocacy groups continue to push for more favorable immigration policies that would allow these graduates to remain in Canada and pursue their dreams.